Mr. Barry O'Brien:

The Deputy will be aware from our three previous appearances before the committee on this matter that there has been no lack of commitment on the part of the HSE to obtain all the information requested by the Committee of Public Accounts. The level of avoidance in terms of providing that information has been frustrating and is evident, as stated by Dr. Smith, from the replies given in the context of preparation of the report. In the case of St. Vincent's the response was that it would not provide the information because it related to private funds. These are the challenges facing the HSE.

I concur with the Deputy that 99.9% of public servants are being paid as per their scales, are making their contributions through pay cuts, levies and everything else required under Government policy. There is a responsibility on organisations in receipt of funds to make full disclosures.